Jacob Trouba is going to play for the University of Michigan Wolverines next season.

The Winnipeg Jets first round pick in 2012 made his intentions clear during pre-draft meetings and he’s sticking to his guns, with the support of the team.

“Yeah, they respect that and I’m glad they do,” said Trouba, who was chosen ninth overall. “I was pretty clear that’s where I was going and I wanted them to know that picking me.”

Going the college route allows Trouba more time to round out his game.

“Getting bigger and stronger, that’s the biggest thing,” said Trouba, when asked what he needed to work on. “I like to play physical and that’s something I’m going to need to improve on to play at the next level.

“Education is also a big part of it. That’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be able to attend Michigan and play there. I really want to take advantage of that.”

Trouba plans to pursue a degree in kinesiology.

“I want to explore the sports management side of things,” he said. “That’s something that interests me.

“I’m excited to get my education underway and play for Coach (Red) Berenson.”

Trouba, 18, will actually be teammates with 2011 Jets draft pick Brennan Serville, a third rounder who had eight assists in 34 games as a freshman for the Wolverines last season.

The Wolverines will be playing an outdoor game at Comerica Park in January after the 2013 NHL Winter Classic is played.

Not only is Trouba from Rochester, Mich., which is roughly 30 minutes from Detroit, he’s also a huge Tigers fan.

“I went to a lot of Tigers games and losing 119 games, I was that one guy there,” said Trouba, who was a pitcher and catcher when he played baseball. “My whole family is pretty big on baseball."

Trouba was also big on the style played recently retired Red Wings defenceman Nicklas Lidstrom.

“I was always a big Lidstrom fan, being in Detroit and being able to watch him was a special thing,” he said.

Make no mistake, Trouba’s style is similar to another frequent Norris Trophy candidate who is the captain of the Nashville Predators.

“I wouldn’t say I model my game after anyone but I really enjoy watching Shea Weber play,” said Trouba. “He’s a big, physical guy who has a good shot and he’s a leader on and off the ice. I admire how he plays.”

Trouba’s former head coach gave him a glowing endorsement, especially his leadership skills.

“On your pre-scouts, he’s a guy that you have to keep your head up when he’s out there,” said Cole, who coached Trouba in the United States Development program. “He’s tough and he’s physical. He doesn’t run around, but he’s a big physical guy and he hits people hard. And there’s a real good mean streak to him.

“He takes things personally on the ice. But in a good way. He doesn’t take himself out of the game. He throws a lot of big checks and enjoys the physical part of the game.”

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